Artist Spotlight: Katrin Albert

We are back on the blog with another Artist Spotlight. If you are new to the blog, this is a feature, where we spotlight photographer’s and artist that are inspiring others with there instant film work. If you would like to be a featured artist or know of someone you would like to see on the blog, drop us a line. We love putting people in the spotlight!

This week, the spotlight is on New York City based photographer, Katrin Albert. Katrin is another Instagram find. Her feed is full of colorful glimpses into her life, tons of Instant film, and splashes of blue in pink hair to keep it interesting! Please be sure to check out her social media outlets and show her some love.

NYC based mixed media artist, muse, magic seeker. I live, I create through combining little crumpled and torn pieces of paper with my random thoughts, feather-weight cobwebs of dreams, wall graffiti, mirrors and sand. I arrange dusty treasures I found while wandering, bittersweet memories, overheard secrets and desires; I add the scent of cedar and bergamot and mix it all with ink, coffee and blood because I accidentally prick my finger with a quill while writing, and because most rituals require such commitment.

I believe in grinning at signs granted by the universe, my pricked finger just one of the many I’ve seen today.

Ever since I made a contract with myself to forever seek magic in daily adventures, I do things on a whim, feel the wind on my back, notice hints and make things happen as I wish them to be. I don’t expect anyone else to show me miracles. I paint my own enchanted green door and step out, remembering to leave it half-open.

How did you get into instant photography?

I got one as a present from a friend. I was using his for a while — a polaroid automatic 100 — and at some point I wanted to keep it but he wouldn’t let me have it. Eventually he sent me a package with another Automatic and I’ve been buying them ever since.

What is your favorite camera used for instant photography?

That very first one — polaroid automatic. Still a favorite.

What instant camera have you not shot with, but would love to try?

Not really instant but Hasselblad with a polaroid back is still on my list.

What’s your favorite Impossible film or pack film type?

FujiFilm FP3000b and Impossible B&W film for 600/sx70

How have you incorporated instant film into your regular workflow?

Instant film is a staple for the fine art stuff that I do. I also use it for a lot of self-portraits. In terms of commission work, it’s an option and I take a lot of different types of cameras with me. Clients love it.

How would you describe your voice or vision with instant photography? (does it differ from your other work?)

It’s hard to say if it’s different or similar to my other work but a friend once mentioned that my instant photography is simultaneously more sinister and more tender.

Any personal projects we should know about?

I am very interested in projects involving cinematography and more dynamic visuals. I did a collaboration with a poet (which you can watch at www.katrinalbert.com) and it was amazing. I would love to do more stuff like that.

What other photographers do you look up too?

I don’t follow many other photographers because I feel like their work distorts my vision. I love Tarkovsky’s polaroid photography though.

What advice would you give to someone just getting into instant photography?

Let go of expectations. The only expectation you should have is that you will end up spending lots of money on it.

Where does your inspiration come from? Do you seek it out or wait till it finds you?

Both, you have to do both. You have to step outside and look at the world as closely as you can.